In a landmark moment for Kenyan politics, Raila Odinga, the long-serving leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), officially stepped down from his leadership role, handing over the reins to Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o in an acting capacity.
The move, announced during ODM’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa on Saturday, October 12, 2024, marks a pivotal shift as Raila focuses on his campaign for Chairman of the African Union Commission (AUC).
In his emotional address, Raila outlined three final wishes for ODM as he passed on the leadership baton.
First, he urged the party to continue setting the standard for professionalism, highlighting that a recent Registrar of Political Parties report recognized ODM as the only party operating ethically and in compliance with the law in Kenya.
“Ata yule mkaguzi wa vyama amesema yakwamba ODM pekeake ndo chama ambaye inaendeshwa kwa maadili na sheria. Nataka ODM izidi kuongoza katika eneo hizo,” Raila said.
The second wish was a plea for unity among ODM members, encouraging them to remain focused on the party’s vision for Kenya’s future, despite the challenges ahead.
“Na vile vile tunataka wanachama wetu wazidi kuunga mkono chama chetu. Najua kuna changamoto mingi uko mbele lakini kama watu wetu wakishikana pamoja nina uhakika kwamba tutaweza,” he emphasized.
Finally, Raila’s last wish was for ODM to conduct peaceful grassroots elections, which are scheduled for next month.
He called on contenders to respect democratic processes and maintain sportsmanship regardless of the election outcomes.
“Sasa vile munavyojua tulitangaza kwanzia mwezi ujao tutaanza uchaguzi mashinani. Hio uchaguzi tunataka ifanyike kwa njia ya demokrasia, hatutaki fujo…Kama watu wawili wamejitokeza kugombea kiti mmoja atashinda na mmoja atashindwa wakimaliza wanasalamiana maanake chama ndo muhimu Zaidi kuliko wewe ama mwingine,” Raila noted.
Leadership changes
Nyong’o, who has been with ODM since its founding over two decades ago, will now lead the party in Raila’s absence.
Raila expressed full confidence in Nyong’o’s ability to uphold ODM’s ideologies and continue strengthening the party.
The NEC meeting also ratified recent appointments made by the Central Committee after senior officials of the party stepped down to take up roles in the national government.
The changes include Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as the new National Chairperson, taking over from John Mbadi who is now the Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Vihiga Senator as Deputy Party leaders, replacing Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya (MSMEs) and Hassan Joho (Mining and Blue Economy).
Other changes include Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu who replaces Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi as Secretary for Political Affairs, while Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga is the new Deputy Organizing Secretary.
As Raila steps back from day-to-day party leadership, the transition marks a significant turning point for ODM as it prepares for future elections and political challenges.